GPs 'angry and agitated' about plan for free GP care for children under six

The President of the Irish Medical Organisation has said GPs are angry and agitated over plans for free GP care for children under six.

It comes ahead of the union's annual conference this weekend during which delegates will debate motions on issues including overcrowded emergency departments and former CEO George McNeice's €10m pension.

However, the majority of members are most concerned about plans to change the GP contract to include a provision for free GP care for children under six.

Outgoing IMO President Matthew Sadlier said his members felt the under-six plan was unworkable and unacceptable.

"There certainly is a lot of anger about how this contract has been brought forward," he said. "Our members are very agitated about the process and feel it would be a negative step for general practice."